By Amanda Kilyk

It’s three weeks until Labor Day weekend, but there’s plenty more summer fun to be had. Residents of Northwestern-New Jersey do not have to travel far to enjoy all that summer has to offer. Between local farms open for tours and local amusements which have proven entertaining for the entire family, Warren and the neighboring counties find activities that can continue to be enjoyed into the autumnal weather. While summer is nearing an end, below are several entertaining localities that can continue to be visited into the fall, rounding out a far-from-normal summer.

1. Orchard View Lavender Farm (Port Murray): Located in Warren County, this small farm features a picturesque lavender bloom – great for photographers and plant-enthusiasts alike.
   
   “We hope to grow our farm into a favorite destination where visitors can ‘cut your own’ lavender when in season and visit our lavender farm stand,” its website describes. Additionally, it has a small shop: “We offer a variety of natural, handmade artisan lavender products, including bath and body, household, culinary, teas, sachets, wreaths, unique gifts, home and garden decor and of course, lavender bundles both fresh (when in season and while supplies last) and dry as well as lavender buds.”
   
   To plan the perfect trip, the Farm notes that they usually experience two blooms: once in early summer and once in the early fall. According to Orchard View’s website, they are enforcing social distancing protocols. More details on this, as well as tours and other events, can be found on the website, as well.
   
   
2. Land of Make Believe (Hope): “Plan a fun day at the Land of Make Believe. We have it all. Amusement Park, Waterpark, Low Prices, Short Lines, Free Parking and Incredible Family Fun,” reads the Amusement Park’s website, which says it all: Land of Make Believe is a tried-and-true, family-entertainment classic.
   
   A local favorite since 1954, Land of Make Believe touts small crowds and extra-cleanliness on their Facebook page, as well, so many can consider this a safe location to bring the whole family while still practicing health and safety measures. The park includes a water park and dry land park for the price of one. Visit the amusement park’s website for a chance to win free tickets or to find out more about. Recent new rides include the Scream Machine 360, Off-Road Safari Adventure, and, new this season, the Twisted Timbers roller coaster, all of which add to the park’s arrangement of summer thrills and fun!
   
   
3. Wild West City (Next door in Stanhope, Sussex County): Open daily through the beginning of September (and then on weekends until October), Wild West City is the perfect destination for the family who wants to travel back in time, to experience all the thrills that Dodge City, Kansas, had to offer back in 1880. Between an old-time stagecoach ride, a stroll down main street, or even ‘panning for gold,’ there will be something for any member of the family to enjoy. The Main Street alone offers shows, museum quality exhibits, food, and a dress-up photo center! For ticket prices, hours, and more details of the featured attractions, visit the website here.
   
   
4. VonThun Farms Sunflower Trail (Washington): At VonThun Farms’ Washington location, the Sunflower Trail is now open for the 2020 season. The bloom lasts through August and offers another beautiful photo-op for visitors, who can visit daily through Labor Day. Even when the flowers aren’t in bloom, the farm’s views are worth a visit throughout the year.
   
   “Although we ask that you social distance while at the farm, you’re welcome to wander and linger, and take as many photos as you please,” the website says. “You can cut your own sunflowers to take home too!”
   
   While the Sunflower Trail is plenty advertised at the moment, other activities and fun are offered by VonThun Farms. ‘U-pick blackberry and raspberry fields’ are a fun summer activity, as are hayride tours of the farm, tours of the animal-barnyard area, and visiting their farmers market. For those that wish to tour the trail, tickets must be purchased ahead of time.
   
   
5. Delaware Water Gap: As an outdoorsy and local summer attraction fitting for many personalities, the Delaware Water Gap draws hikers, kayakers, and history buffs alike. Its scenic hiking trails span 28 miles, offering smaller trails within, which offer a range of different levels of difficulty.
   
   The national recreation area also has a wonderful route for those who want to enjoy traveling along the river by canoe, kayak, or tube. “The Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River offers some of the best and most accessible water recreation opportunities in the northeast United States,” the website says. “This part of the Delaware River is relatively unspoiled as it travels through the rural landscape. Lots of quiet pools and a few short riffles make this section ideal for beginning paddlers and those seeking a relaxing trip.”

What’s your family’s go-to summer fun spot in Warren and the surrounding area? Let us know in the comments!